On 17 June 2026, MetaVET virtual reality workshop was hosted by Adriano Mauro, AREA Managing Director, in Udine, Italy. The event presented the results of MetaVET developments, showcasing how Virtual Reality (VR) and collaborative robot technologies can transform Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). It was developed to support the acquisition of Industry 4.0 digital skills, providing innovative and accessible training solutions for vocational schools and SMEs in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro through immersive virtual learning environments.
The MetaVET Platform, developed by ICEBERG, the project coordinator based in Romania, offers an immersive virtual training ecosystem in which teachers and learners interact with intelligent cobots represented by personalised avatars. Through structured, real-time simulations and competency-based training activities, participants can acquire practical skills regardless of their geographical location. One of the platform’s key strengths lies in its ability to provide real-time feedback from virtual cobots, enabling both teachers and students to learn from mistakes, refine technical competencies, and build confidence through continuous practice in a safe and controlled environment.
The workshop attracted representatives from educational institutions, innovation clusters, industry organisations, and civil society, including COMET, TEC4IFVG, ITS Academy Udine, and Oikos NGO. Educational institutions expressed interest in exploring the adoption of VR-based learning environments to complement existing teaching methodologies and provide access to specialised training resources. While representatives of non-profit organisations identified opportunities to apply immersive technologies to language learning and integration programmes for migrants. Likewise, industry stakeholders recognised the potential of VR-enabled simulations and digital credentialing systems to support workforce development, reskilling initiatives, and lifelong learning pathways.
A key asset supporting MetaVET’s digital learning initiatives is the Smart Step e-Learning Platform, a comprehensive digital ecosystem designed to facilitate education, training, capacity building, and lifelong learning across multiple sectors. Discussions following the presentation highlighted strong interest in the practical applications of the MetaVET and Smart Step ecosystems across different sectors.
The exchange of ideas confirmed that technologies initially developed for Industry 4.0 and vocational training can generate broader societal impact, supporting inclusive education, digital transformation, and skills development across diverse learning communities.
